Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 72802 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 72802

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$700
1 Bedroom	$750
2 Bedrooms	$980
3 Bedrooms	$1,320
4 Bedrooms	$1,330
5 Bedrooms	$1,543
6 Bedrooms	$1,728
7 Bedrooms	$1,866
8 Bedrooms	$1,959

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
3BR	$1,320	$231,605	0.57%	F
4BR	$1,330	$340,876	0.39%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Based on the provided data, ZIP 72802 in Pope County, Arkansas, is best suited as a **cash-flow anchor** within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This classification is supported by the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a $1,000 metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the current market rental rate of $1,100. Additionally, the median home value of $241,294 suggests a stable real estate market with predictable returns.

The primary advantage of including ZIP 72802 in your Section 8 portfolio is its ability to provide consistent cash flow. With a rental rate that exceeds the FMR by $100 per month, landlords can expect to receive higher subsidies than the actual market rate, ensuring steady income even if the property is rented below market value.

Furthermore, the low price-cut share of 0.2% and the non-applicable day Days on Market (DOM) indicate that properties in this ZIP code are likely to sell quickly without needing significant price reductions. This stability is crucial for maintaining a positive cash flow position, especially when dealing with subsidized housing where rent adjustments may be limited.

While the 22.7% renter share and median income of $64,110 suggest some potential for appreciation and diversification, these factors are secondary to the immediate financial benefits of a cash-flow anchor. Appreciation plays typically require patience and a willingness to absorb short-term losses for long-term gains, whereas diversifiers aim to spread risk across different income levels and property types.

In summary, ZIP 72802 offers a reliable base for generating regular income through its favorable rental rate dynamics and quick property turnover, making it an ideal choice for a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).

About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.